Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
A study finds that breast milk contains very low levels of tacrolimus, and babies can clear the drug at the same rate whether breast-fed or bottle-fed. Women taking tacrolimus who wish to breast-feed after counseling should not be discouraged from doing so.
Mothers of newborns in neonatal intensive care units struggle to find private spaces for breastfeeding due to hospital design. This lack of privacy can lead to missed feedings and increased health risks for low-weight premature babies. The study's findings highlight the need for innovative solutions to address mothers' concerns.
A survey of lactation consultants found that 69% reported hearing of folk remedies and 65% recommended at least one. These remedies include cabbage leaves to ease pain and oatmeal to increase milk production. However, there is little empirical evidence to support their use.
Spanish researchers have discovered a diverse range of bacteria in breast milk, including over 700 species. The study found that mother's weight and labor type affect microbiome diversity, with heavier mothers having fewer bacteria in their milk.
A new study from Temple University psychology professor Marsha Weinraub found that most babies sleep through the night, waking up only about once per week, by six months. The research revealed two groups: sleepers and transitional sleepers, with 66% of babies not waking at all and a majority being boys.
A recent in vitro study discovered that formulas are toxic to cells due to free fatty acids, while breast milk protects against cell death. The researchers found that digestion of formula leads to cellular death in under 5 minutes, whereas breast milk does not.
Pediatric residents who participated in simulated clinical exams showed a significant increase in confidence and comfort when addressing breastfeeding issues. The OSCE interventions also improved their ability to take a thorough history, assess the baby's condition, and provide professional guidance. By training future pediatricians in...
The Fourth Annual Summit on Breastfeeding highlighted ongoing disparities in breastfeeding, with only 44% of African-American women reporting breastfeeding compared to 66 and 68% for Hispanic and white women. The summit also explored the role of access to support, counseling, and equipment as a means to increase breastfeeding rates.
A study at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of ER/PR-negative breast cancer. Women who breastfed their children had no increased risk of this aggressive tumor subtype.
A study of 284 controls and 142 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia found a higher risk associated with longer formula feeding and later solid food introduction. The risk increased by 16% for every month of formula feeding and 14% for each month the introduction of solid foods was delayed.
Researchers have measured high levels of DDT in breast milk from nursing mothers in malaria-stricken villages in South Africa, far exceeding World Health Organization limits. The findings highlight the need to decrease exposure to DDT, which has been linked to various health issues, including cancer and impaired reproductive health.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center found that breast milk fosters colonies of microbiotic flora in a newborn's intestinal tract, while infant formulas do not. This unique property of breast milk aids nutrient absorption and immune system development, suggesting potential approaches for developing substitutes.
Researchers found that immunologically active components called human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) may protect infants from HIV transmission. HMO act as prebiotics, inhibit pathogens from binding, and exhibit anti-inflammatory activity.
A study published in Pediatrics found a strong association between persistent and loud snoring in young children and problem behaviors such as hyperactivity, depression, and inattention. The study suggests that doctors should routinely screen for and track snoring in children from poorer families to prevent preschool behavior problems.
Research finds that bifidobacteria can process complex glycans linked to proteins in breast milk, providing a new source of energy for at-risk infants. The discovery could lead to the development of probiotics to support premature or malnourished children.
A study by University of North Carolina researchers found that breast milk has a strong virus-killing effect and protects against oral transmission of HIV. The 'BLT' mouse model was used to demonstrate this, with the oral cavity and upper digestive tract of mice mimicking human cells affected by HIV transmission.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center isolated antibodies from breast milk that can generate neutralizing antibodies to help inhibit the HIV virus in infants. The study's findings may help develop immune system prophylaxis during breastfeeding for mothers infected with HIV-1.
A new study from the University of California - Davis Health found that flash-heating breastmilk can reduce the risk of HIV transmission to infants in sub-Saharan Africa. The technique involves heating breastmilk to a high temperature without destroying its nutritional properties, making it safe for babies beyond six months.
A study by Oregon Health & Science University found that restricting pacifiers in a hospital setting decreased exclusive breastfeeding rates and increased formula consumption in breastfed infants. The researchers argue that the effect of pacifier use on breastfeeding has not been well-established, warranting further scientific inquiry.
A new study published in Genome Biology reveals that breastfeeding leads to a wider range of beneficial microbes in the infant's gut compared to formula feeding. The research also shows that breastfed infants' immune systems have developed to cope with the differences, promoting intestinal stability and defense against pathogens.
A recent study found that breastfeeding for six months or longer comes with a hidden cost: significant income loss for mothers. Long-duration breastfeeders experienced more pronounced and prolonged earnings drops compared to short-duration breastfeeders and formula-feeders.
Longer breastfeeding with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce mother-to-child HIV transmission and improve infant survival. The study found that continued breastfeeding with prophylaxis given for an extended period may be advantageous in improving infant survival.
A large-scale randomized study found that daily antiretroviral drugs given to HIV-infected mothers or their breastfeeding babies for 28 weeks significantly reduced HIV transmission through breast milk. However, early weaning was found to be of little protective value against HIV transmission and may even increase infant mortality.
A study found high levels of TRAIL protein in human milk, which may contribute to its anticancer properties. Researchers detected 400- and 100-fold higher levels of TRAIL in colostrum and mature breast milk than in blood.
A study by Lund University researchers reveals that meat-eating is linked to the timing of weaning in mammals, which may have contributed to human population expansion globally. The study found that carnivorous species, including humans, have shorter breast-feeding periods than herbivores and omnivores.
A recent study found that carnivorous mammals, including humans, tend to have shorter breast-feeding periods than herbivorous or omnivorous species. This may be due to the higher-quality diet that allows for earlier brain development and weaning. The research suggests that meat-eating played a crucial role in human evolution and popula...
The study finds that early initiation of breastfeeding is the most equitable intervention among various maternal and newborn health interventions. Community-based interventions were more equally distributed than those delivered in health facilities, suggesting a need for targeted efforts to reach poorest individuals.
A recent study found that less than 2% of low-income mothers met breastfeeding recommendations, highlighting the need for increased support and resources. The research suggests that physicians can play a crucial role in removing barriers to breastfeeding by providing accessible information and assistance.
A qualitative study of new mothers found that the ideal of exclusive breastfeeding for six months can be unhelpful and difficult to achieve. The study suggests that more realistic and incremental goals should be set, with a focus on emotional support and family-centered care. Healthcare professionals are advised to adopt a proactive ap...
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed models to optimize breast milk distribution in South Africa and malaria intervention distribution in Swaziland, increasing coverage by over 25%. They also forecasted disaster preparedness plans for Puerto Rico and Belize, providing recommendations for health care resources and hospital capacities.
Researchers verified that WIC administrative records accurately reflect breastfeeding practices among over 2000 low-income mothers. The study's findings provide a critical resource for nationwide breastfeeding surveillance and monitoring systems.
Breastfeeding mothers may accumulate caffeine in their bodies and pass it to their babies, causing symptoms like wakefulness and irritability. A safe level of caffeine intake while breastfeeding is unclear, but experts recommend moderation.
A recent study published in Current Anthropology reveals that women who did not plan their pregnancies are more likely to stop breastfeeding within three months. The research suggests that unplanned pregnancy leads to emotional and physical discomfort, causing women to resist the close physical connection required by breastfeeding.
A new study found that breastfeeding improves lung function at school age, particularly in children of asthmatic mothers. Breastfed children showed significant improvements in forced mid-expiratory flow and vital capacity, but not in peak expiratory flow rates.
A study found that implementing the World Health Organization's recommendations could reduce mother-to-child transmission rates in Zimbabwe from 18% to 6-7%. This would require increased access to effective medications, support for long-term medication adherence, and safer infant feeding options.
A study found that extending nevirapine prophylaxis from 6 weeks to 6 months reduces mother-to-child HIV transmission by 54% and is safe for infants. The treatment also resulted in fewer serious adverse events compared to the placebo group.
Women with obesity may face increased risks of preterm birth, respiratory complications, and poor breastfeeding rates. However, with proper education, motivation, and medical care, they can have healthy pregnancies and successful outcomes for both mother and baby.
Research from Concordia and McGill universities found that breastfeeding protected infants from contaminated food and water, while also postponing the arrival of siblings, leading to improved maternal and child health. French-Canadian children who were weaned earlier faced a disproportionate number of deaths.
Although breastfeeding initiation has improved to 75% globally, the duration remains a concern. A series of articles in Breastfeeding Medicine proposes various approaches to encourage longer duration, including community-based public health programs and prenatal education.
A new study found a significant association between adolescent alcohol consumption and increased risk of benign breast disease among girls with a family history of breast cancer. Consuming more alcohol was linked to a higher risk, particularly in those with rapid height growth spurts.
A randomized clinical trial found that breastfeeding in mature feeders reduced behavioral pain scores in preterm neonates. However, the study did not show significant benefits for all breastfed infants and raised concerns about potential negative effects on developing brains.
Researchers found that low-income fathers have a positive view of breastfeeding but lack specific knowledge about its benefits. They also reported feeling limited in their ability to influence their partner's decision to breastfeed.
A recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that breastfed babies initially experience more night wakings and disrupted sleep patterns. However, these differences typically stabilize within six months, with all sleep patterns becoming comparable to non-breastfed babies.
Studies highlight obstacles to increasing breastfeeding rates among low-income mothers, including lack of support and knowledge. Community health workers emphasize the need for additional education and resources to promote breastfeeding.
A Spanish study found that women with higher education levels breastfed for longer periods, especially during the 1960s and 1990s. The researchers attribute this trend to increased access to healthcare services and advice from healthcare professionals, which helped maintain breastfeeding rates.
A new study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that oxycodone is not safer for breastfed infants than codeine, contradicting previous assumptions. The research surveyed 533 women who took codeine, oxycodone, or acetaminophen during breastfeeding and reported symptoms of central nervous system depression in their children.
A study found that breast-feeding mothers are more likely to display aggression when threatened, with lower blood pressure levels. This increased courage is believed to be linked to the reduction of stress response in these women.
A large global study concludes that exclusive breastfeeding for four months or longer does not protect against childhood eczema. The study, involving 51,119 children in 21 countries, suggests that the current guidelines on breastfeeding and eczema prevention need to be reviewed.
Valley Presbyterian Hospital will receive a $500,000 grant to implement policies and procedures promoting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers. The three-year initiative aims to enhance the hospital's ability to provide intensive training, new procedures, and postnatal support to encourage more mothers to rely on breast milk.
A new study found a positive association between maternal IV fluids and newborn weight loss, suggesting that some weight loss in the first 24 hours may be due to hydration regulation rather than breast milk deficiency. The researchers recommend using weight measured at 24 hours post-birth as a baseline for assessing newborn weight loss.
Research published in the European Respiratory Journal found that children who were exclusively breastfed for 6 months had a reduced risk of developing asthma-related symptoms. The study also showed that the longer duration of breastfeeding was associated with fewer wheezing episodes.
Women with breastfeeding difficulties in the first two weeks after giving birth are more likely to experience postpartum depression at two months, according to a new study. The study found that women who disliked breastfeeding and those with severe breast pain were at higher risk of depression.
A randomized trial found that manual breast milk expression was more effective in improving breastfeeding rates than using a breast pump, especially in the first two months. Manual expression also led to higher comfort levels and more frequent breastfeeding among mothers.
A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that using hypoallergenic baby formula does not decrease the risk of allergies in high-risk infants. The trial involved 620 infants and assessed whether hypoallergenic formula could prevent childhood eczema, asthma, or hay fever up to seven years of age.
New research from the American Academy of Neurology found that breastfeeding does not have a protective effect on multiple sclerosis relapses. In fact, women with high disease activity and high risk of postpartum relapses may need to resume MS treatment after giving birth.
A new clinical trial is being conducted to evaluate the safety of a promising HIV prevention gel, tenofovir gel, in pregnant and breastfeeding women. The study aims to provide critical information on the safety of using tenofovir gel during pregnancy and lactation.
The study examines various factors that contribute to childhood obesity, such as genetic predisposition, breastfeeding, TV watching, neighborhood environment, and cultural influences. The researchers have collected data from approximately 400 families and are beginning a third wave of data collection.
A study found that early nutrition, specifically breast milk versus formula feeding, can impact a child's growth and metabolic profile. After four months, the protein content of infant formulas played a key role in inducing differences in blood insulin levels and growth patterns between groups.
A new study from Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that breastfeeding mothers respond more emotionally to their infants' cries, with greater activity in caregiving brain regions. This is the first paper to examine neurobiological mechanisms linked to breastfeeding and maternal behaviors.
A recent study found that breastfeeding mothers are perceived as less competent than non-breasting mothers, with biases detected among both men and women. This prejudice may deter some women from breastfeeding, highlighting the need for greater support to overcome negative experiences.